NBA
New York Knicks vs Houston Rockets Prediction, Odds and Picks
I think the Knicks were hoping for better than a 3-2 start but it is tough to integrate high-level players in the NBA. Their two losses are to Cleveland and Boston too, so it is not like they are losing to the dregs of the league. I am not sure if the move works, but they are getting production from big man Karl-Anthony Towns. He is averaging 22 ppg and 11 rpg. This is already their fourth road game in six.
This Houston team is tough to figure out. They have some solid wins this season, but also some losses that make you think they have not quite turned the corner. I like that they are playing better defense, but the offense needs a jolt and I am not sure why center Alperen Sengun is playing so few minutes right now. Veteran point guard Fred VanVleet has been awful shooting the ball to start the season.
The Knicks should win on the road tonight. VanVleet is a nice defender against top scorer Jalen Brunson, but New York should win at the other spots on the floor, which is more than enough to cover the -3. They have covered in all of their SU wins this season. It might be a low-scoring game like both were last year, but the Knicks can win in a variety of ways.
New York -1.53 available at publishing. Playable to -3.